Picture a storyteller who traded guitar strings for gripping stories—meet David Arnold, the American author whose young adult novels like Mosquitoland and Kids of Appetite weave humor, heart, and resilience into unforgettable narratives. From a Nashville musician to a New York Times bestselling novelist, Arnold’s journey is as captivating as the characters he crafts.
Now based in Lexington, Kentucky, Arnold infuses his writing with a musical sensibility and an honest voice that resonates with readers worldwide. Ready to dive into a world where self-discovery meets quirky charm? Let’s explore David Arnold’s life and legacy!
The Making of David Arnold
Born and raised in the United States, David Arnold grew up in a musical household, mastering multiple instruments and dreaming of rock stardom. After college, he moved to Nashville, where he worked as a freelance musician and producer, crafting songs in his attic studio. Life took a turn when he became a stay-at-home dad, trading late-night gigs for diaper changes and storytime. It was during this time that Arnold began writing Mosquitoland, a novel he thought no one would read. Spoiler: it became a bestseller, launching his literary career.
Before writing, Arnold wore many hats—preschool teacher, barista, and musician—each role shaping his knack for storytelling. His musical background, especially the influence of artists like Elliott Smith, taught him the power of authenticity, a trait that defines his work today.
David Arnold’s Unforgettable Stories
Arnold’s novels are a blend of poignant themes and playful prose, often exploring self-discovery, community, and the messy beauty of human connection. His debut, Mosquitoland (2015), follows Mim Malone, a teen on a thousand-mile journey to reconnect with her mother, meeting quirky characters along the way. The book’s raw emotion and sharp wit earned Arnold a Publishers Weekly Flying Start and the Southern Book Prize.
Kids of Appetite (2016) is a tragicomedy of love and loss, centered on a group of misfits unraveling a mystery. The Strange Fascinations of Noah Hypnotik (2018) dives into identity and reality, while The Electric Kingdom (2021) blends sci-fi and survival in a post-apocalyptic world. His latest, I Loved You in Another Life (2023), is a soulful love story about reincarnation, showcasing Arnold’s ability to tackle big ideas with heart. Each work carries his signature style: multidimensional characters, musical rhythms, and a balance of humor and depth.
Arnold’s writing process mirrors his music days—perseverance, honest critique, and a soft heart beneath a thick skin. His stories, translated into over a dozen languages, invite readers to embrace their quirks and find home in unexpected places.
Why David Arnold Matters
David Arnold’s impact on young adult literature lies in his ability to craft stories that feel like a friend—relatable, flawed, and fiercely hopeful. His focus on kindness and community resonates with readers navigating their own journeys of self-discovery. Awards like the Great Lakes Book Award and translations worldwide highlight his global reach, while his musical roots add a unique layer to contemporary YA fiction.
By blending humor with heavy themes, Arnold creates safe spaces for readers to explore identity, grief, and love. His work reminds us that even in a chaotic world, connection and authenticity can light the way.
- Key Works: Mosquitoland, Kids of Appetite, The Electric Kingdom, I Loved You in Another Life
- Awards: Southern Book Prize, Great Lakes Book Award, Publishers Weekly Flying Start
- Location: Lexington, Kentucky
- Fun Fact: Arnold creates original music as NEON IMPOSTER.
Snag Mosquitoland or I Loved You in Another Life and dive into David Arnold’s heartfelt, quirky world of young adult fiction!